Norway's National Football Team Celebrated by Thousands After World Cup Success

Norway's national football team was greeted by an enthusiastic crowd of around 90,000 fans at the Royal Palace after their remarkable journey to the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals. Despite a narrow defeat to England, the team's performance marked a historic achievement. Players celebrated with fans in a vibrant atmosphere, showcasing the iconic 'Viking Row' and engaging with the royal family. Coach Stale Solbakken and player Martin Odegaard expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming support, while top scorers Erling Haaland and Sander Berge missed the public festivities due to travel commitments. This event highlighted the nation's pride in their football team's success.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 14, 2026, 13:17 IST

Historic Welcome for Norway's Football Team

Photo: @AfricaisHOME2/X

Oslo, July 14: A massive crowd of fans gathered outside the Royal Palace in Norway to greet the national football team upon their return from an impressive journey to the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals.

Approximately 90,000 enthusiastic supporters filled the palace square, celebrating the team's remarkable achievement despite their 2-1 loss to England in extra time on Saturday in Miami. This performance marked Norway's highest success in FIFA World Cup history.

As the players took to the stage, they joined fans in the now-famous "Viking Row" celebration, which has become emblematic of Norway's unforgettable tournament experience.

Norwegian broadcaster NRK reported that the players shook hands with the king and participated in rowing with the royal family and around 88,000 attendees, followed by a nearly two-hour bus parade along Karl Johans gate. The festivities continued with another rowing session at Radhusplassen before the bus parade extended into the late hours of Oslo.

Martin Odegaard expressed his amazement at the overwhelming support, stating, "I don't think anyone could have imagined this. The backing we've received has surpassed all expectations, both in the US and here in Norway. It's been absolutely incredible to witness."

Coach Stale Solbakken remarked, "The King prepared us for what was coming. We were a bit surprised by the scale of the turnout. There were also some engaging football discussions."

Unfortunately, the team's leading scorer, Erling Haaland, and Sander Berge could not participate in the public celebration due to prior travel commitments.

Solbakken noted, "They both visited the king but were delayed by four or five hours. They had to leave to catch their flight, but they did meet with King Harald before departing, following the plan until they had to go."